San Salvador, El Salvador, Sep 29, 2006 / 12:00 am (CNA).- Bishop Jose Adolfo Mojica Morales of Sonsonate, El Salvador, has condemned the murder of Father Ricardo Antonio Romero and is demanding that authorities “investigate and bring to swift and due justice” those responsible for the crime.”

In a press release the bishop expressed his “just and uncontainable indignation” over the killing of Father Romero, who he said constantly “showed his love for the poor and for his untiring work of evangelization.”

Father Romero was bludgeoned to death on Monday. Police said they suspect the crime was carried out by a group of men associated with powerful gangs that operate in the area.

The body of the Salvadoran priest was transported to the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity for a traditional wake. Dozens of people have come to pay their last respects to Father Romero, who was a priest for almost eleven years.